Starting school can be a stressful time for kids and parents. It can also be an exciting time full of new beginnings and fresh starts! We are now a few weeks into the school year in Ontario. By now you may be feeling more settled into your morning routine and getting to bed earlier than you did during the summer months.
Your kids may be starting to feel more at ease in their new classrooms and are getting to kn
ow their peers and teachers. Drop-offs may be going a little smoother and that fifth good-bye kiss may no longer be needed.
Or, maybe you are reading this and thinking, “ya right, in what magical universe do drop-offs go smoothly?” And don’t worry – you are not alone.
Although most kids are starting to settle into their new classroom, this transition can be very difficult for a lot of children. Being away from their home and family all day can feel scary and overwhelming to young children. If this sounds more like your child here are some strategies that may help your little one feel more secure while away from you and help support their transition into the new school year:
1.Routine, Routine, Routine! Creating structure and routine in your mornings and evenings can help children feel more secure – making it easier for them to be away from home. Knowing what will happen next and what to expect when they get home from school each day can help kids feel more at ease throughout the day. And the more information kids have – the better. Before drop off, let your child know who will be picking them up and what will happen after school. This can offer them the reassurance they need to get through the day.
2.Transition Objects: A transition object is something from home that provides a sense of comfort to your child and that they can bring with them to school or daycare to help them feel that same sense of comfort away from home. Bringing a picture of their family, their blanky or favourite stuffed animal, or a small object or toy from home with them in their backpack or pocket can help kids feel comforted throughout the day. It is a great way to remind kids that you are there for them even when they are at school.
3.Talk to Your Child’s Teacher: If your child is having a hard time getting to school, expressing feelings of worry or fear about school, or seems to have a tummy ache every morning (but magically not on the weekends!) – talk to their teacher. Let their teacher know what strategies work at home. They may be able to replicate them in the classroom or even suggest some extra suggestions for you! Remember – Your child’s teacher can’t help if they don’t know that there is a problem. The more information your child’ teacher has – the more they will be able to support you and your child.
4.Get Extra Support: If you’ve tried everything you can think of and your child is still having a hard time getting to school, or still has those mysterious tummy aches at 8:15am every weekday, it may be time to reach out to your local children’s mental health agency, your family doctor, or a private practice that works with kids. There is absolutely no shame in asking for extra help and trust me – a little can go a long way.
Until next time,
Meg
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